Bucas Grande

Bucas Grande is an island in the Caraga region of the Philippines, administratively part of Surigao del Norte and the municipality of Socorro. It is best known for nearshore limestone coves and marine attractions rather than large urban development.

The island’s most visited area is Sohoton Cove, a compact group of small coves and lagoons reached by banca boats; attractions include narrow cave entrances, rock archways and clear swimming holes used for snorkeling and kayaking. Island-hopping around nearby islets and reef snorkeling are also common day-trip activities.

Bucas Grande has long been inhabited by fishing communities and has developed tourism infrastructure oriented to day tours and modest guesthouses rather than large resorts. Local livelihoods remain based on fishing and small-scale tourism services.

Geographically it sits off the northeastern tip of Mindanao, within the Surigao Strait area; the nearest major urban center is Surigao City to the north, from which boat services or transfers are commonly arranged to Socorro and points around Bucas Grande.

• Location: Located in the municipality of Socorro in Surigao del Norte, part of the Caraga region of northeastern Mindanao.
• Wildlife and snorkeling: Home to shallow, clear lagoons and cave systems where non-stinging jellyfish and abundant reef life are commonly seen when snorkeling.

What to See #

• Sohoton Cove: A protected cluster of coves and lagoons on the southern shore of the island, notable for limestone formations, small sea caves and clear swimming holes accessed by boat and short swims.